About
An evergreen shrub with long, slender, arching reddish stems, and broadly oval, glossy intense green leaves that are aromatic when crushed. Clusters of small reddish-pink flowers are produced in early spring, and followed by round red berries that are popular with birds.
About the genus
Ribes can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, sometimes spiny, with simple, usually palmately lobed leaves and small tubular or bell-shaped, solitary or racemose flowers borne in spring or summer, followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationTolerates a range of soils. Useful ground cover for light shade in warmer regions
PruningNo pruning required, though can be trimmed to create a bushier shape and will tolerate renovative pruning if necessary
PropagationPropagate by seed, by semi-ripe cuttings or by layering; stems will sometimes root naturally as they spread
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to gall mites, gall midges and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, powdery mildews, coral spot and sometimes honey fungus